Jude Bellingham's competition with Morgan Rogers is providing the England "superstar" with an edge, according to team-mate Ollie Watkins.
Bellingham's Form at the World Cup
The 23-year-old is at his fourth major tournament and is set to win his 52nd cap in Wednesday's round-of-32 encounter with the Democratic Republic of Congo in Atlanta. Bellingham heads to Georgia coursing with confidence having followed his key goal in the 4-2 win against Croatia in England's Group L opener with back-to-back man of the match performances.
The Real Madrid midfielder scored one and provided the other in Saturday's 2-0 victory against Panama and Tuchel believes he is in a "sweet spot" at this summer's World Cup.
Watkins on the Competition
"Maybe the competition (has him playing with the bit between his teeth)," Aston Villa striker Watkins told talkSPORT. "I think there was a lot of talk of Jude and Morgan, and so many names being thrown around the 10 position. Obviously the press want to talk about that and rightly so because there's so many talented players in that position."
Watkins added: "But I think competition is always a good thing. I think complacency... maybe before in the Euros, there was no doubt that Jude would play. Having that little bit of edge... 'am I going to play?' it keeps you on your top game, and I think he's showing why he's so important for England, and why he's a superstar."
Impact on England's Campaign
Bellingham's form has been crucial for England, with the team advancing to the knockout stages. The competition for places, particularly with Morgan Rogers, has pushed Bellingham to maintain high standards, according to Watkins. England face the Democratic Republic of Congo next as they aim to progress further in the tournament.
